7 Short Hairstyles That Make Thin Hair Look So Much Thicker

It's no secret that styling fine hair can be tricky, especially if your length errs on the cropped side and you're looking for short haircuts to suit thin hair.
We've all been through plenty of bottles of volumising mousse and dry shampoo trying to get the perfect finish, but sometimes it can feel like no matter what you do, your hair always ends up falling flat. But fear not, as I reached out to Samantha Cusick, founder of Samantha Cusick London and Stā Studios, to find out the best short haircuts to suit thin hair.
"Having fine hair doesn't mean you’re limited when it comes to hairstyles," explains Cusick.
"I've selected the short hairstyles below, as not only do they offer a variety of options for those with thin and short hair, but they also prove that with the right cut and styling techniques, you can achieve stylish and voluminous looks, regardless of your hair's thickness."
Intrigued? There really is something for everyone—whether you're looking for a new, edgy 'do this season, or want a different take on the classic bob hairstyle, we've got you covered. So, without further ado, keep on scrolling to browse some of the best short hairstyles for thin hair, and don't forget to check out all of our product recommendations for the finishing touch. You are welcome...
7 of the Best Short Hairstyles for Thin Hair
1. Side-Parted Pixie
"A side-parted pixie cut is an excellent choice for fine hair," says Cusick. "The soft, side-swept layers add dimension and movement, making the hair appear fuller whilst still keeping the style short and chic."
Side part hairstyles really are such a chic look, and I can see this being in style for years to come.
As Taylor Hill has proven, the side part doesn't need to be razor-sharp either.
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Use a fine-tooth comb like this one to move your hair into place for a sharp side part.
Then, add some styling cream to finish everything off and help your look last all day.
2. Boxy Bob
We've seen so many celebs opt for this "boxy" bob style, from Laura Harrier to Hailey Bieber. "With its blunt cut and no layers, this hairstyle is an ideal choice for finer hair," says Cusick. "The precision of this cut gives the illusion of thicker hair whilst maintaining a modern and sophisticated look."
If you're concerned about the maintenance that comes with a bob haircut, look to the bouncy bob and square bob trends as inspiration for a grown-out look.
The cut brings so much dimension and life to short hair cuts, especially for those with type 3 and type 4 hair!
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To get a sleek, smooth finish, use a hot brush after washing your hair. This BaByliss one comes with different attachments depending on your desired style. Just ensure you spritz with a heat protection spray to maintain the integrity of your stands.
3. The 'Mixie'
"Kristen Stewart's 'mixie' haircut is a fusion of a mullet and pixie, and it's perfect for those with thinner hair," explains Cusick. "The shorter cut with longer pieces creates a playful, edgy look whilst maintaining volume at the crown."
Florence Pugh has become one of Hollywood's leading beauty chameleons, but we think this mixie could be one of her most iconic hairstyles.
If you don't feel quite ready for a full-on 'mixie' this winter, why not take a more subtle approach and go for a statement pixie cut like this one?
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A pomade is a great way to keep your pixie style in place, and this Charlotte Mensah one contains lots of nourishing ingredients.
If you want a bit more volume at the roots, you can't go wrong with a hair mousse.
4. Peek-a-Boo Bangs
"Peek-a-boo bangs are a great option for those with finer hair who want to experiment with a fringe," says Cusick. "These wispy, face-framing bangs add a touch of style and frame the face without overwhelming thin hair."
I think layered fringes are easily one of my favourite hair trends of the whole year.
Even if you're growing out your short hair, peek-a-boo bangs suit with an elongated lob hairstyle.
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These clever hair roller clips will give your bangs lots of volume without using any heat.
This cream from Bumble and Bumble will also help to add volume. Simply work into your air dried hai and let it dry naturally.
5. Natural Wavy Locks
"The likes of Alexa Chung and Kate Moss are famous for their 'cool girl' hair," says Cusick. "The tousled, wavy look is iconic and proves that you can embrace your hair's natural texture and still exude style."
As Cusick explains, "The loose, beachy waves add volume and texture, making the hair look fuller and effortlessly chic."
Parisians always do this hairstyle well, and I can't help by adore Jeanne Damas's fresh waves and silky texture.
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If you're not blessed with naturally wavy hair, fake it until you make it with this Beauty Works waver.
Add a generous helping of hairspray to help keep your waves in place.
6. Sleek Centre-Parting
"Straight hair with a centre-parting is another style that complements finer hair textures," says Cusick. "The sleekness and the centre part create a polished, elegant look that works well for those with thinner hair."
A centre-part hairstyle looks great on shorter hairstyles, especially a blunt bob.
A centre part looks so slick with braids, too.
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This handy kit is ideal for keeping flyaways at bay, especially when you're rocking a middle parting.
To keep your roots looking fresh, I couldn't recommend this detoxifying and clarifying shampoo enough. Trust me when I say that it removes any traces of build-up.
7. Micro Bun
For a more low-maintenance short hairstyle for thin hair, opt for a chic micro-bun to add the illusion of volume and length. Bun hairstyles are anything but basic, and this look not only gives you that lifted effect because of how pulled back the style is, but actually requires little effort and products to achieve.
If breakage is a concern, you can also use a claw clip to hold your hair up, though it won't have that sleek finish that we love about micro bun hairstyles.
A soft twist up-do is just so unintentionally elegant.
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While we always discuss the elegant basics French girls love, this hair brush from La Bonne Brosse is undeniably a French beauty essential.
Spray Hair by Sam McKnight's texture mist into your roots to set the look.
Grace Lindsay is the junior beauty editor at Who What Wear UK. At the age of 18 she decided to train as a makeup artist before going on to study english and media at Goldsmiths University. It was during that time that she explored her love for journalism by interning at a small beauty start-up based in Shoreditch. Since then, she has worked at a number of publications including Marie Claire and Hello!, where her love for all things beauty continued to grow.
As Who What Wear UK's junior beauty editor, she covers everything from the latest hair trends to the stand-out makeup products of the season.
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